Monthly Archives: October 2016

  • Is Using PVC Pipe for Potable / Drinking Water Safe?

     

    These days, contractors have a number of great options when it comes to residential plumbing pipe. The industry standard is still copper pipe, as it is strong and compatible with a wide range of fittings and pipes. It's also been around over 70 years and known to simply work by most contractors. Another emerging favorite is PEX tubing, a flexible and durable piping option. The main problem with these plumbing materials are their higher price tag. PVC is a cost-effective and durable option for potable water (Drinking Water).

    For this reason, many thrifty contractors and home improvement enthusiasts turn to PVC pipe (product) and CPVC pipe (product) for their home plumbing needs. It is also a great insulator, so outside environments will not affect the heat of water inside the pipe. While many people only use PVC for drainage and cleanouts, it can be the sole piping material in a home when used in conjunction with CPVC. In this article, I will address some of the most common questions about using PVC for potable water.

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  • 4 Popular Applications for True Union Ball Valves

     

    PVC true union ball valves are a versatile valve. They allow fluid to flow through when in the "on" position and completely stop it when in the "off" position; all it takes is a 90-degree turn of the handle! The word "ball" comes from the semi-spherical shape of the inside of the valve. This causes the pipeline pressure to decrease gradually and saves the insides of the valve from damage that can be caused by fluid hitting against a flat surface. "True union" is a term that means this valve has multiple parts. The central body of true union ball valves can be unscrewed and removed from a pipeline, eliminating the need to completely disassemble a pipeline for routine valve maintenance and cleaning.

    These valves have a great number of practical applications, from fire safety to gas and oil transportation. Practically any job that requires starting and stopping flow can be improved by adding a ball valve, and the true union design makes maintenance easy.

    1. Irrigation Systems

    One of the most common uses of PVC valves is for drip irrigation systems. Often, these systems are placed over a large backyard garden and used to water a variety of different plants and vegetables. With no valves, all of the different produce would receive the same amount of water. If the irrigation is positioned in rows, one over each type of plant or vegetable, a true union ball valve can be placed right at the beginning of each row. This means that water flow can be cut off from certain rows when they do not need watering. This helps customize and increase the amount of control you have over your irrigation system and garden.
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